AW Bell to manufacture GMLRS canards

Melbourne-based AW Bell has signed a contract with Lockheed Martin to progress production verification activities for the manufacture of canards – small aerofoils that act as control surfaces – for GMLRS munitions. This activity is part of a demonstration program in partnership with the Commonwealth’s Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Enterprise.

Lockheed Martin is due to launch the first Australian-assembled GMLRS in Australia later this calendar year.

This is the first GWEO Enterprise-funded activity and is designed to help identify and uplift Australian industry as a potential source for GMLRS and future missile manufacturing opportunities, says Lockheed Martin. This aligns with the Australian Government’s objectives to develop local industry capability and increase industrial resilience as outlined in Defence’s GWEO Plan.

“AW Bell has a strong reputation as a world-class supplier of precision parts for defence and industry, making them a key partner for this and other potential projects, whilst also opening up future export pathways,” said James Heading, Director and General Manager, Lockheed Martin Australia Missiles and Fire Control.

“Canards are a product with very stringent technical requirements. Commencing the domestic uplift of a GMLRS canards supplier will help elevate AW Bell to be more competitive in the global supply chain and better position another Australia-based supplier for future growth here and in international markets.” \

The company will work closely with AW Bell to identify any required tooling or equipment to perform the scope, and develop manufacturing techniques to meet product specifications.

 AW Bell produces complex metal products with high mechanical properties for aerospace, defence, and other industries. The company specialises in advanced castings manufacturing and precision machining and this production verification activity gives them the opportunity to progress the production verification of the GMLRS canards through a domestic manufacture demonstrator process.

“To be given the opportunity to prove capability in-country is a real honour,” said Sam Bell, CEO of AW Bell.“We are passionate about building sovereign independence and strengthening the Australian manufacturing industrial base.  This is a great step forward in showcasing Australian capability to supply advanced solutions that serve the needs of both local and global markets.  We are excited by the relationship ahead with Lockheed Martin and appreciate their support of local manufacturers.”